A Better Life

Slowing Down to Get Ahead

By: Rebecca Smith, Shannan Martin

Narrated by: Rebecca Smith

The founder of Better Life Bags, Rebecca Smith, teaches us how to take little steps, say yes when God calls, and follow the passion he has given us.

Let love stretch you. As the founder of one of the most popular custom handbag companies in the country, Rebecca Smith knows a thing or two about business. A highly successful entrepreneur in a world where the focus is on scalability, brand strategy, and global marketing, Rebecca Smith also knows the truth: that every success she's experienced at Better Life Bags has been the result of very small, very ordinary, very obedient steps of faith.

Moving from Savannah, Georgia, to Hamtramck, Michigan, was culture shock enough for Rebecca. But trying to feel at home in a city where 26 different languages were spoken and most of the inhabitants were immigrants seemed downright impossible. It was only when Rebecca recognized that God had called her to this specific neighborhood at this particular moment in time that his plans began to unfold for her. Stepping forward into the place God had called her - a place that seemed messy and uncomfortable and unfamiliar - Rebecca discovered the true secret to success: when we slow down, pay attention, and trust that still, small voice of God to guide us, we just might change the world.

Though Rebecca never set out to build a brand or create an empire, God saw Rebecca's heart for others and began to multiply her efforts in ways she could have never imagined, creating a company where women from different cultures, faiths, and backgrounds work together for the good of others - for a better life.

As you listen to this inspiring story, you will discover how to hear and follow God's voice for yourself as you slow down, take one small step at a time, and make a difference in the world right where you are.

"Devout Christian handbag entrepreneur Rebecca Smith describes how obedient steps of faith toward God's plan brought her happiness and unexpected entrepreneurial success. Narrating with sincerity that sounds at once innocent and steadfast, she is inspiring in substance and tone - she's a humble believer whose vocal sweetness will speak to people of all spiritual persuasions." (Audiofile Magazine)

©2020 Rebecca Smith (P)2020 Zondervan

A Better Life Follower

I’ve followed Rebecca for several years now and although I’m more of a painter than a reader... I was stoked to read/listen to her book! It was such a joy to listen to. I finish feeling encouraged and inspired to finish the race well the Father has laid before me!

Loved it!

You CAN follow your dream. You don’t have to hustle hard every minute. Such a great, enjoyable read.

Like listening to a friend

This was such a good book. As a small business owner there are so many nuggets of wisdom I will take with me. I would definitely recommend this book and will read it again!

Felt like coffee with a friend

Seriously though, Rebecca has a beautiful way of making you feel like you were sitting down for coffee with a friend. She is vulnerable, funny, challenging and loving. I love her heart and how she beautifully portrays it in her book. You won’t regret this read

Fantastic!

Best book. Very relatable and a fun listen. So many take-aways! Overall great story that you can listen to again and again!

A Great Listen & Reminder That God Has A Plan

First off I’d like to say I’m glad to hear Rebecca’s voice speaking her story to me. It wasn’t at all like she was reading it either. It was as others stated, like we were hanging out. She was just telling me some of the stories of her life that she’s learned and grown from. I laughed in parts, as I felt as though I wasn’t alone in some of the things I’ve gone through. It was a compelling and encouraging listen that made me think of things I need to do bette. I can relate greatly to being the all hustle all the time extreme and the swing to the no hustle at all extreme. Our situations are VERY different and I struggle with chronic depression, chronic sleep deprivation and a high stress lifestyle that I have to take one day at a time. I took away a lot of tips and even more faith revelations that I can put into play in my life. It is an easy listen but thought provoking. Although it took me a while to finish (due to lack of time on my end not the content). I’m so glad I did and proud to say I have a few Better Life Bags that I absolutely love. I think perhaps there can be another Better Life Book from a new season down the road. God most certainly has great plans for you and your family.

So good!

Listening to Rebecca read through her story feels like such intimate encouragement. It is no coincidence that God had her book release in the midst of such uncertain and tumultuous times as 2020. Her encouragement to trust, lean in to the hard, and focus on the present was just what my tired soul needed to hear. Thank you!

wonderfully real and fun

loved having it read by the author.

there were many nuggets of life that spoke to me in all these stories. so glad I read this book

Couldn't put it down

I read it in 2 sittings. This book is honest, real, and full of encouragement. I feel like Rebecca is one of my friends after reading her book.